This program of study combines a strong theoretical foundation in applied linguistics with practical training in the teaching of English to speakers of other languages. The principal goals of the program are to provide the linguistic foundations for English as a second/foreign language teaching, equip teachers with the practical skills needed for effective language teaching, and prepare students for further study (including doctoral-level studies) in applied linguistics and related fields. This advanced degree offers a core of required courses and options to tailor the program to personal interests through choice of electives.
The Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) provides students with the theory and practical skills needed for effective language teaching and related career paths. It also prepares students for further study in applied linguistics and related fields. The degree opens up many career opportunities in the U.S. and abroad.
To receive a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master’s degree programs require more than 30 units.
You must additionally complete:
Read the full policy here.
In addition to University Requirements:
| Minimum Units for Completion | 38 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Optional |
| Arizona Endorsement | May prepare student for Arizona Endorsement. |
| Thesis | Thesis may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Oral Defense | Oral Defense may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Foreign Language | A foreign language may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Research | Individualized research may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
| Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan | Optional |
Purpose Statement
Our TESL degree combines a strong theoretical foundation in applied linguistics with practical training in the teaching of English to people who speak other native languages. The principal goals of the program are to:
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), students will be able to:
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
This Master’s degree requires 38 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 38 units:
English Common Coursework (24 units)
Content Coursework Electives (9 units)
Students who successfully petition for a thesis must enroll in at least 3 units of ENG 699. These 3 units are in addition to the 38 units required for graduation.
You must also:
This program is available as an Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan wherein a student may start a master's degree while simultaneously completing their bachelor's degree.
Students enrolled at the Flagstaff campus for both undergraduate and graduate programs are eligible to complete the Bachelor of Arts in English and start a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language at NAU.
Students accepted into the Accelerated Program should complete the following requirements:
Master's Requirements
This Master's degree requires 38 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 38 units:
Content Coursework Electives (6 units)
Students who successfully petition for a thesis must enroll in at least 3 units of ENG 699. These 3 units are in addition to the 38 units required for graduation.
You must also:
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.